University of Stuttgart
- Study at a top-ranked German university known for its research and innovation.
- Ideal option for architecture, engineering and STEM students.
- Hike the Black Forest, visit the Mercedes Benz Museum, or relax by a fountain at Palace Square.
- Courses in German and English. Open to students with no prior German language experience.
- Collins Scholarship and Baden-Württemberg Stipend available. See Further Reading below for more information.
The University of Stuttgart is known for its exceptional research and world-class teaching. It is a leading technical university offering more than 160 study areas. Located in the state of Baden-Württemberg in southwest Germany, the university is situated in a region famous for its large companies (Mercedes Benz, Bosch, Porsche, and many more), thriving economy, technology and innovation, and an abundance of natural beauty including the Black Forest and Lake Constance.
University of Stuttgart
Founded in 1829, today the University of Stuttgart is a modern institution with a worldwide reputation for excellence in engineering research and high tech innovation. It is a member of the prestigious TU9, Germany’s top nine research institutions. The university has 28,000 students, including more than 5,000 international students. There are more than 150 degree programs at this institution, but it is an especially excellent choice for students in engineering, architecture, and other technical and physical disciplines.
Stuttgart, Germany
Stuttgart is the capital of the state of Baden-Württemberg in southwest Germany. With 580,000 inhabitants it is the sixth largest city in Germany and the economic, cultural, sporting and social hub of the region. This city is home to one of Germany's great art collections at the Staatsgalerie, world-class opera and ballet, luxury car brands Mercedes and Porsche, historic castles, and interesting architecture. There is no shortage of things to discover! While Stuttgart is an industrial hub and famous for its significance in the auto industry, the city is set among rolling hills, vineyards, parks, forests, and the River Neckar, creating a pleasant atmosphere with ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and other outdoor pursuits.
Baden-Württemberg is a state in southwest Germany bordering France and Switzerland in the heart of Western Europe. It is known as the "sunny side of Germany" thanks to its favorable climate and is famous for its beautiful forests, lakes, and castles. The Black Forest, Lake Constance, and Hohenzoller Castle are all located in Baden-Württemberg.
The University of Stuttgart is organized into 10 Faculties (Schools):
- Faculty of Aerospace Engineering and Geodesy
- Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning
- Faculty of Chemistry
- Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering
- Faculty of Computer Science, Electrical Engineering
and Information Technology - Faculty of Energy, Process, and Bio-Engineering
- Faculty of Engineering Design, Production Engineering, and Automotive Engineering
- Faculty of Humanities
- Faculty of Management, Economics and Social Sciences
- Faculty of Mathematics and Physics
Explore the 150+ academic areas at the University of Stuttgart website.
Most courses at the bachelor’s level are taught in German, however, some courses in English are also available each semester. Most courses at the graduate level are taught in English. Students with no German language background may apply for the extended Spring semester program (see below).
Enhanced Spring Semester Program (ESSP)
The Enhanced Spring Semester Program (ESSP) is a special program for exchange students who have little or no previous exposure to German. This program begins in January with intensive German language study and extends through the regular Spring semester ending in July. Students earn a minimum of 24 KU credit hours for this extended semester. Speak with your Study Abroad Program Coordinator regarding this special program option and the application process.
Course Information
Students typically earn 12 to 18 KU credit hours during one regular semester abroad. Students doing the ESSP or IGC will earn a significant number of additional credits. You are encouraged to use the following resources to research available courses and to determine if these courses will meet your academic requirements at KU:
Stuttgart Course Catalog: Search for courses available in all departments. Catalog can be used in German or English.
KU Course Equivalency Database: This is a list of courses currently pre-approved for KU credit (approved equivalency) and courses that students have had approved for KU credit in the past (possible equivalencies). Use ‘Stuttgart’ in the search field.
Intensive German Language Course (IGC): The IGC is a pre-semester intensive language and orientation program. It is required for all students with less than two semesters of German language (level A2) and strongly recommended for all others. Courses are offered at all levels and credit is awarded for German language study.
Credit Approval Process
Visit the Credit Approval Process page for detailed information on the procedure for obtaining KU course equivalency approval for courses you plan to take abroad. All courses taken and grades earned while abroad must be posted as KU equivalents on a student’s KU transcript and grades will figure into a student’s KU GPA. The relevant KU academic department will make the final decision regarding posting of credit, and their application toward graduation.
Students are housed in student residence halls within walking distance or a short ride from the Stuttgart campuses. Most students live in single rooms with a shared kitchen and bathroom. Rooms are reserved through the Studierendenwerk Stuttgart, the university’s housing provider. Exchange students have priority access to select rooms. Cost varies based on residence hall selected and rent includes all basic utilities (water, electric, garbage). Learn more about the residence halls in Stuttgart at the Studierendenwerk website.
There is no meal plan, but all students will have access to kitchen facilities in their residence hall or can purchase inexpensive meals at the Stuttgart cafeterias (“mensa”), with many options including vegetarian and vegan selections.
SAGE is dedicated to creating international engagement opportunities that meet the needs of all our students and providing resources to support you through the process of studying abroad. Study abroad is achievable for students of all identities including our BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ students, students with disabilities, and students with religious/non-religious viewpoints. Before selecting a program, consider how your identities may impact your experience abroad in unique ways and talk with your Program Coordinator about any program-specific concerns. Students with documented disabilities should discuss any accommodation needs with their Program Coordinator early in the planning process.
Considerations for Germany
Germany has laws in place to protect ethnic and religious minorities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, the differently abled, and other groups. Same-sex marriage is available in Germany and most large city governments officially encourage and host LGBTQIA+ pride events. Most German universities have student groups and community organizations to support LGBTQIA+ students.
Germany’s cities and public transportation are generally accessible to individuals with disabilities. Older sections of the cities and smaller towns may be less accessible due to centuries-old architecture, cobblestone streets, and small indoor spaces. Germany offers services for people who are mobility, sight, or hearing impaired.
Source: U.S. Department of State country information pages and Diversity Abroad.
Additional Resources
Check our Identity Abroad page and resources listed below for information specific to you and other students who may be on your program.
Drs. Dean T. and Elisabeth Collins Scholarship
The Drs. Dean T. and Elisabeth Collins Scholarship is a fund created by an estate gift from the late Dean and Elisabeth Collins for semester study abroad in Germany. Awards up to $10,000 per semester or $20,000 for year-long programs to Germany. Open to all majors but preference for students studying music and particularly opera. Additional preference given to students studying German language and culture. Minimum 2.5 GPA requirement. Apply online at Drs. Dean T. and Elisabeth Collins Scholarship.
Baden-Württemberg Scholarship
The state government of Baden-Württemberg has set up a scholarship foundation providing scholarships (monthly stipend) to exchange students. See Baden-Württemberg Scholarship. For more details and application forms, contact Study Abroad & Global Engagement.
German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
A wide range of scholarships are also available through the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). Please contact Study Abroad & Global Engagement for more information.